Lavrov: Russia is open to implementation of international projects in the Arctic

Russia is open to joint implementation of large-scale projects in the Arctic, including in the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated in his article for Shared Voices Magazine's special issue on the Arctic Council's 20th anniversary, RIA Novosti reports.

"This refers, in particular, to the development of oil and gas fields, the use of the Northern Sea Route as the shortest cargo transit route between Europe and Asia, and the development of industrial, transport and tourist infrastructure," the Minister pointed out.

He also emphasized that Russia has always believed that the economic development of the Arctic should be pursued in compliance with the highest environmental standards, and with due respect for the people living in that region, and the traditional lifestyle of the indigenous peoples.

According to Lavrov, Russia has always considered the Arctic as a territory of mutually respectful dialogue, and hopes that other Arctic countries are aware of the danger of assuming confrontational approaches in the region.

"All the necessary conditions for enhancing this dialogue have been established: the international law clearly defines the rights of both coastal and other states. We are strongly committed to resolving any disputes through civilized negotiations. We hope that our Arctic Council colleagues are aware of the danger of assuming confrontational approaches and importing tensions as well," the Minister said.